Myristica philippensis (of the family Myristicaceae) or locally known as Duguan because of its reddish aril can be found throughout the Philippines except for Palawan. Is a plant which bears seeds, and said seeds are ground into a powder and commonly referred to as Nutmeg. The tree which bears these seeds grows up to 15-20m tall and is endemic to the Philippines. It can thrive with a partial shade light preference. Wood is used for light construction.
Nutmeg butter, a fixed oil obtained by pressing the seeds, is used in ointments, perfumery, soaps, and candles. Locally and alternatively, seeds are the source of the spice called nutmeg while the dried aril is the source of mace.
Nutmeg benefits are many. Nutmeg is found to have health benefits, including its ability to relieve pain, soothe indigestion, strengthen cognitive function, detoxify the body, boost skin health, alleviate oral conditions, reduce insomnia, increase immune system function, and prevent leukemia, and improve blood circulation.
Nutmeg has been used both medicinally and recreationally for the treatment of anxiety and mood disorders. El-Alfy et al. demonstrated that the administration of nutmeg extracts produces behavioural effects similar to ∆9-THC, a known exogenous cannabinoid and the major psychoactive constituent of marijuana.
Nutmeg oil is considered to be one of the most potent oils for improving the condition of erectile dysfunction. This essential oil increases blood circulation in the body and is also a well-known aphrodisiac.
Large dosage (30 grams which is about 6 tablespoons a day) of nutmeg can be toxic, producing disorientation, double vision and convulsions, but these side effect will not be produced even with generous amount in culinary usage. During pregnancy and breast-feeding, Nutmeg is unsafe in doses larger than amounts found in foods. In pregnant women, they may cause miscarriages or birth defects.
It is now considered to be vulnerable by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.